Free Republic

Bombing exercise 'caused fires' Dozens of homes destroyed Authorities angry at military MILITARY bombing practice has caused one of France's worst fires for three years which continues to rage on the eastern outskirts of Marseille. The fire has burnt dozens of homes but claimed no victims. The wildfire was caused by military practice shelling which hit the eastern Trois-Ponts suburb of the southern city forcing the evacuation of scores of residents. "There are a few dozen houses burnt in the Trois-Ponts district but there are no victims," fire brigade spokesman Samuel Champon said. "There are more homes threatened than vehicles...

Activists challenge a police policy under which protesters can be arrested rather than only cited. Civil-rights activists say a Denver police policy could result in mass arrests and a clogged jail during the 2008 Democratic National Convention, and they have filed a claim seeking monetary damages over its use last Columbus Day parade. "We think there is a strong possibility that Denver is headed for a very disastrous and catastrophic situation," said Mark Silverstein, who directs the Colorado American Civil Liberties Union. The policy regards police handling of misdemeanor offenses committed by protesters. Until last year, Denver's policy for minor...

Anti-war protesters were allowed to spray paint on part of thewest front steps of the United States Capitol building after police wereordered to break their security line by their leadership, two sources toldThe Hill. According to the sources, police officers were livid when theywere told to fall back by U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) Chief Phillip Morse andDeputy Chief Daniel Nichols. "They were the commanders on the scene," one source said,who requested anonymity. "It was disgusting." After police ceded the stairs, located on the lower west frontof the Capitol, the building was locked down, the source added. A second source who...